Toyota LandCruiser 70-Series double-cab confirmed

As reported exclusively by CarAdvice back in February, Toyota Australia is set to launch a new double-cab ute variant of the LandCruiser 70-Series. The company says the demand has been primarily from the mining sector, which is looking for a rugged vehicle with extra capacity.

Toyota Australia will be the first to have access to the LC79 LancCruiser 70-Series double-cab as it lands in Australia in late September. Priced from $63,990, the double-cab will mark the fourth body style on offer in the LandCruiser 70-Series range (Wagon, Troop carrier, single cab-chassis).

Double-cab ute buyers can pick between a Workmate or GXL grade, but like all nine LandCruiser 70 Series variants, they are powered by the same 4.5-litre 32-valve V8 turbo-diesel engine that delivers 151kW of power and 430Nm of torque. The double-cab variants gain the recent upgrades to the range which include anti-skid brakes (all grades), better seats, improved audio system with Bluetooth (including audio streaming) and an air-inlet snorkel mounted on the A pillar.

Workmate variants get aluminium side steps, vinyl-wrapped seat facings and floor coverings as well as 16-inch steel rims, black bumpers and the availability of diff locks as an option. GLX models get the same size rims but in alloys, remote central locking, diff locks, power windows, fog lamps, cloth seats and carpet for an extra $4,000.

Toyota Australia’s executive director sales and marketing Matthew Callachor said that the demand for the double-cab has been so high that some buyers have been modifying the wagon version to provide the same flexibility as a double-cab.

“The double cab will carry five adults as well as providing a one-tonne payload for their heavy gear, such as surveying equipment. For other customers, including farmers, the large cabin will allow the kids to ride along, while also offering the touring benefits of a dual-cab ute along with the legendary LandCruiser toughness.” Mr Callachor said.

The 70-Series is one of the longest serving members of the Toyota family, having been on offer in various forms for the past few decades. Toyota Australia says buyers are extremely loyal with the majority of new buyers simply replacing an existing 70 Series.